It was not long ago when the New Orleans Pelicans looked to be falling out of the play-in picture entirely. Spiraling out of control without Zion Williamson, the Pelicans looked to be trending towards rock bottom before a recent surge brought them right back into the mix. Currently sitting in a tie with the Lakers for the 7th seed, the Pelicans still have their sights set on a top-six finish, and will likely need a win against the LA Clippers tonight in order to make that a possibility.

For the Clippers, they are looking to hold on to their place in the top-six, currently sitting in a tie with the Golden State Warriors for 5th. Needless to say, this Clippers vs. Pelicans matchup is a very big game between two teams that both need wins.

For the Clippers, their injury report is not too extensive, as Paul George and Marcus Morris are the only players listed out. Eric Gordon is listed as questionable with hip tightness after missing the last half of yesterday’s game for the same reason. Kawhi Leonard is available and expected to play his first back to back of the season.

For the Pelicans, they will be without Zion Williamson, E.J. Liddell, and Jose Alvarado. As previously mentioned, this is a huge game for both teams. The Clippers sit just one loss above the Pelicans and the Lakers in the standings, which adds to the overall uncertainty surrounding their team. A lot of that uncertainty can be calmed with a win in this game, as it makes the Clippers’ path to a top-six finish much more direct.